Tuesday, June 11, 2019

Genetic Engineering: Evolution or Deterioration?


Genetic Engineering: Evolution or Deterioration?
~ Gwilda Wiyaka ~
There is much hype, hysteria and debate regarding GMOs, or genetically modified organisms. The GMOs most debated are those that alter the genetics of our food. Commercial sale of modern genetically modified foods began in 1994, and since that time, GMO produce has become a large part of our food supply.
What few of us recognize is that humans have been genetically modifying organisms for over 30,000 years in the form of selective breeding or artificial selection. The earliest evidence of artificial selection of plants dates to 7800 BC Scientists have found domestic varieties of wheat in archaeological sites in southwest Asia.
One of the most dramatic alterations in plant genetics occurred through artificial selection of corn. Corn, or maize, began as a wild grass that had tiny ears with very few kernels. Over hundreds of years, it was selectively bred to have larger ears with more kernels, resulting in the corn we have today – well, until modern GMO procedures altered it further.
There is no doubt we now have more people on the planet than we can feed. GMO food is supposed to provide a much greater yield than conventional plants, but at what cost? Have we pushed nature too far? What are the ramifications of our meddling?

With us this hour to debate the value and disadvantages of genetically modified food is Jeffrey Smith. Jeffery is the author of “Seeds of Deception,” the world’s bestseller on GMOs, and “Genetic Roulette: The Documented Health Risks of Genetically Engineered Foods.” He is the leading consumer advocate promoting healthier non-GMO choices. Jeffery is the founding executive director of The Institute for Responsible Technology (IRT), and was named the 2017 “Person of the Year” by Masters of Health Magazine. Mr. Smith also has two documentary films: award winning “Genetic Roulette — The Gamble of Our Lives,” and his latest with Amy Hart, “Secret Ingredients.”
LISTEN HERE>>>

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